To this point in the book of Revelation earth has been subjected to a series of judgements by God. These were the seal judgements (Ch.5-8), the trumpet judgements (Ch.8-11), and finally the bowl judgements (Ch.12-16). Having described the fall of Babylon in the last two chapters there is a dramatic change of mood in the following chapters. We now shift from destruction to praise as John describes hearing a great number of voices praising God shouting “Hallelujah!” John witnesses praise in the context of a marriage supper an event mentioned many times elsewhere in scripture (Matthew 22 and 25). John’s amazing vision includes the long awaited second coming of Christ.  This is a moment of incredible triumph. Jesus’ first arrival on earth was humble and involved His sacrifice on a cross. His return, however, is neither humble nor meek.

John sees heaven standing open before him; what a moment that must have been to witness. Christ is described quite vividly riding a white horse with eyes of blazing fire wearing many crowns and a robe dipped in blood. Following Him are the armies of heaven also on white horses and fine white linen. Now described as King of Kings and Lord of Lords Jesus will single handedly obliterate the earthly armies that have amassed against Him. This results in the damnation of the antichrist and false prophet who become the first victims cast into the eternal lake of fire. These events mark the end of the tribulation and the beginning of the millennial kingdom, a thousand-year reign of Christ on earth. Christ’s first arrival on earth was to redeem mankind. The purpose of His second coming is judgement and the establishment of His reign on earth and is separate from the rapture in which Jesus reruns to take believers from earth to be with Him in heaven. What a moment that will be for all who believe!

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Question:

How does your vision/perception of heaven compare to John’s vision?

Prayer:

Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness and love to all who follow you and your promise of eternal life. Help us to live each day faithfully and true to your gospel until that glorious day comes when we meet you face to face in heaven. Amen.